Scat Pack vs Hellcat: Which Muscle Car Wins?
Raw American muscle names a few vehicles that command such respect as the Dodge Scat Pack and Hellcat. When it comes to scat pack vs Hellcat, these titans have become legends in the automotive world, each providing a unique mix of power and attitude. The Scat Pack makes 485 horsepower from a 6.4L HEMI V8, while the Hellcat begs to differ with its supercharged 6.2L V8 that generates a vast 717 horsepower. However, raw power is not everything.
The one question most asked among car enthusiasts is whether the extra horses of the Hellcat are worth the extra bucks over the Scat Pack. However, straight-line speed is not the only option to consider. Daily drivability, maintenance cost, and ground performance are also very important as they would ultimately help in deciding the best fit for one. This detailed one-on-one comparison goes through everything you need to know about the two muscle-car giants, helping you choose the Dodge muscle car that best meets your needs and budget.
Comparison Table
| Engine & Performance | ||
| Feature | Scat Pack | Hellcat |
| Engine Type | 6.4L HEMI V8 (Naturally Aspirated) | 6.2L V8 (Supercharged) |
| Horsepower | 485 hp | 717 hp |
| Torque | 475 lb-ft | 656 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph Time | 4.2 seconds | 3.6 seconds |
| Quarter Mile Time | 12.4 seconds | 11.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 176 mph | 203 mph |
| Daily Driving | ||
| Highway MPG | 15-24 MPG | 12-21 MPG |
| Mixed Driving MPG | 18-22 MPG | ~12 MPG (city) |
| Driving Characteristics | Easier control with better grip at the start | Requires skilled handling and extra caution |
| Cost & Value | ||
| Starting Price (2023) | $48,265 | $72,130 |
| 5-Year Depreciation | 39.1% | 32% |
| Practical Features | ||
| Infotainment | 8.4-inch touchscreen | 8.4-inch touchscreen |
| Cargo Space (Challenger) | 16.2 cubic feet | 16.2 cubic feet |
| Safety Features | Advanced multistage airbags, ESC, Park Assist | Advanced multistage airbags, ESC, Park Assist |
Power and Performance Clashdown
Let us now consider the numbers that set these two muscle-car giants apart. We did extensive testing to get them side by side.
Horsepower vs Torque- Who’s Winner
Scat Pack comes with a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine, delivering 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque while the Hellcat packs a supercharged-blown 6.2-liter V8, registering an outrageous 717 horsepower and up to 656 lb-ft of torque with a Challenger model.
0-60 And Quarter Mile Times
The test performed yielded significant performance gaps. Scat Pack takes 4.2 seconds straight from 0-60 mph, while Hellcat rockets from 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds. The quarter-mile time shows a similar trend:
- Scat Pack: 12.4 seconds
- Hellcat: 11.0 seconds.
Real-Most Performance Testing
The Scat Pack had better pulling power off the line in our testing. The Hellcat generates so much power that perfect launches are tricky, especially when conditions are less than ideal. Once the Hellcat breaks past 60 mph, the power comes on strong.
The Hellcat hits a top speed of 203 mph while the Scat Pack can only do 176 mph. That Scat Pack power band extends lower than normal, so you can credibly access full performance in daily conditions without special skill.
Daily Driver Experience
We discovered some notable differences in how these two muscle cars handle normal situations on our daily driving tests.
Comfort The Ride
In Street mode, both vehicles provide quite a comfortable ride. The Hellcat still feels plush in normal driving, despite a temperament that can be inferred as fierce. The toughness of the Scat Pack allows it to handle various road conditions and better commute.
Fuel Economy and Range
These muscle cars show notable differences in daily operation:
- Scat Pack: 15-24 MPG highway, with real-life mixed driving averaging 18-22 MPG
- Hellcat: 12-21 MPG highway, with city driving dropping to around 12 MPG
The Scat Pack achieves remarkable efficiency while cruising and reaches up to 35 MPG in eco mode at steady highway speeds. The Hellcat drinks more fuel but manages decent efficiency with conservative driving.
Traffic and City Maneuverability
The Scat Pack feels more controllable in urban settings, especially when you have stop-and-go traffic. The Hellcat needs extra attention in city conditions because its massive power requires constant awareness, particularly on cold pavement. Both cars provide good visibility and comfortable seating positions. Their size makes parking a bit tricky though.
The Scat Pack emerges as the more forgiving daily driver. The Hellcat can behave civilly but never lets you forget its extraordinary power.
Cost of Ownership Analysis
The cost differences between these two powerhouses are substantial based on our detailed analysis. Let’s get into the financial side of owning each vehicle.
Purchase Price Comparison
These models show a considerable price difference. The 2023 Dodge Challenger lineup offers:
- Scat Pack: Starting at $48,265
- Hellcat: Starting at $72,130
- Widebody variants: Additional $6,000-$8,000 premium
Maintenance and Insurance Costs
The Challenger’s maintenance costs average $8,593 over the first 10 years. Insurance rates vary substantially, and the Hellcat demands higher premiums. Challenger owners pay an average of $3,264 annually for insurance, though clean driving records and proper coverage can lower these rates. With all that power under the hood, you might want to enhance the appearance of your Scat Pack or Hellcat. Wrapping your car can be a stylish and protective option, giving it a unique edge.
Resale Value Projections
Hellcat models retain their value better, showing 32% depreciation over five years while Scat Pack models depreciate 39.1%. The Scat Pack’s lower original price results in less absolute depreciation, making it a smarter choice for long-term ownership. Hellcat models typically maintain 7.2 percentage points more of their value, thanks to their exclusive nature and higher performance capabilities.
Both cars need synthetic oil and premium maintenance parts. Brake service can get pricey. Aftermarket parts offer substantial savings – OEM brake components cost up to $700 while aftermarket options run around $400.
Practical Considerations
Raw power and costs aren’t everything when choosing between these muscle cars. Let’s get into the everyday factors that could shape your decision.
Storage and Passenger Space
Both models pack impressive space for their class. The Charger delivers 105 cubic feet of passenger volume, and the Challenger comes with 93.9 cubic feet. The Charger’s rear legroom stands out at 40.1 inches compared to the Challenger’s 33.1 inches. Cargo space runs neck and neck – the Charger gives you 16.5 cubic feet while the Challenger offers 16.2 cubic feet.
Safety Features and Ratings Scat Pack VS Hellcat
Safety stands tall in both models. The Charger grabbed a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. The safety package includes:
- Advanced multistage front airbags.
- Electronic stability control.
- ParkSense rear park assist.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Forward collision warning.
Technology and Infotainment
The tech package in both models stands out. You’ll find an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration standards. The Hellcat steps it up with Laguna leather seats that heat and ventilate. Standard are voice commands, and you may be able to choose among a variety of audio setups, including a premium 19-speaker Harman Kardon system.
The Uconnect system keeps you connected, while Performance Pages shows you the most up-to-date statistics and engine performance. Sound quality from the standard six-speaker Alpine system hits hard, but the premium audio options take your music experience to new heights.
Conclusion
There is much more to Scat Pack vs. Hellcat than just the numbers. In fact, our exhaustive testing demonstrates that these muscle cars have very different purposes for different types of drivers.
The Scat Pack thrums under a hood of impressive performance: it has 485 horsepower under the hood, and manages to reach 60 in 4.2 seconds, quick enough for most drivers. It yields good fuel mileage and is power that’s easier to handle – read easily as a daily driver – for just $48,265 worth of serious performance without trashing the budget.
The Hellcat offers 717 horsepower, manages 0-60 in 3.6 seconds, and has a top speed of 203 mph – all supercar figures back up its window sticker of $72,130. More skill is needed to drive it because of the extra power – but the unmatched straight-line speed and better resale value make it worth it.
The Scat Pack really stands out as the wise option for most individuals. You get 90% of the Hellcat experience for two-thirds of the price. But for those who desire the ultimate Dodge thrill – and who can take on the problems that may arise – the Hellcat will be worth every dollar as extra power and exclusivity cost more. Both models would make any Dodge lover proud and promise an exhilarating ride no matter which model you choose.
